The new BBC dating show Stranded on Honeymoon Island, presented by Davina McCall, sees singletons paired up by matchmakers after speed-dating, then 'married' in a non-legally binding ceremony and left on a remote Philippine island for three weeks. The couples share a double bed, rudimentary shelter, tinned food and a basic toilet, with mystery crates arriving in later episodes to test their compatibility.
The 12-episode series has been praised for its likeable contestants, a departure from the often-panned participants of other reality shows. Reviewers note that viewers find themselves rooting for couples such as effervescent Hannah and suit designer Sam, lesbian couple Helen and Abby, and devout Christians David and Ini, despite early hiccups like David mentioning another woman at the altar.
While Davina McCall is billed as presenter, her on-screen appearances are limited to the first few minutes of the premiere, leading to cheeky comments about her minimal presence. The show's format blends Love Island with Married at First Sight, but with an optimistic tone that sets it apart.
Critics have welcomed the change, describing it as 'fueled by optimism instead of despair' and populated by people who genuinely seem to like each other. Stranded on Honeymoon Island airs on BBC One and is available on iPlayer.
